nonself

American  

[non-self] / nɒnˈsɛlf /

noun

Immunology.

1. any antigen-bearing foreign material that enters the body and normally stimulates an attack by the body's immune system (distinguished from self).

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Etymology

Origin of nonself

First recorded in 1870–75; non- + self

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

nonself

Not long after researchers proved that plants can distinguish "self" from "nonself" roots, she tested whether they could also pick out and favor kin.

From Science Magazine ● Jan. 3, 2019

Because the arms of the Y-shaped antibodies attach randomly to more than one nonself erythrocyte surface, they form clumps of erythrocytes.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 19, 2013

Antigens are nonself molecules, usually large proteins, which provoke an immune response.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 19, 2013

One of the more devastating errors of the immune system involves its failure to distinguish between self and nonself, resulting in so-called autoimmune diseases, which can be crippling and sometimes fatal.

From Time Magazine Archive

On the molecular level, the distinction between self and nonself disappears in a blur of semipermeable membranes.

From Time Magazine Archive